Back From Holiday & Paperbark Mulberries

After attaining the position of apprentice, I took a well-earned break with my boyfriend in Nottingham. We visited some lovely parks and gardens, and saw the Mighty Oak in Sherwood Forest. Newstead Abbey is also a delightful place of note.

That was a week out, but I’ll be making up for that by working right around Christmas to avoid the usual things people like to avoid at Christmas. :/

On my return, there was no construction site. Only fresh tarmac, planted trees, a painted bandstand and pristine animal enclosures.

Comments

How refreshing and upbeat to hear from someone who obviously loves the work they do. I really enjoy your blogs, T., such enthusiasm. They make me want to go off and start finding all the plants you talk about.
I like this time of year - so clear and peaceful, it gives me time to take stock, and make plans and dream dreams. I even enjoy the cold days. Everything to it's season! Mulberries are supposed to be numerous in this area (well, a bit further down the mountain) from mediaeval times when they were grown in big plantations to feed the silkworms. Silk was a major industry in 15th and 16th century Bologna. Trouble is, I wouldn't know a mulberry tree if it bit me in the leg, nor what varieties would have been used, so don't know what to look for. I shall follow the progress of yours with great interest! A happy and peaceful Christmas to you and yours, and a splendid 2012.

Another great blog Trala, glad you have had a nice break and that you are now back, I love your photos and blogs too.
Gattina, we had an ancient mulberry in our school grounds and I seem to remember that the leaves are huge! Mind I suppose it matters what variety it is too!

I had a feeling that was what to look out for - there was one near the alleyway I used to cut through when I was a little girl on the way to school. The pavement beneath was black! Are the fruits edible?

Actually, and I bet you won't believe this, Grandmage, now it's dark, I had just secreted a pair of secateurs in my pocket to go and walk past my neighbours' lovely big evergreen hedge! True! Just honing my skills.